BigBand aids RCN simulcast rollout

BigBand Networks said it is supplying RCN Corp. with a key technical ingredient for the operator's rollout of digital simulcast.

Specifically, RCN is deploying simulcast, a technique whereby the analog tier is replicated in the digital domain, with the aid of BigBand's Broadband Multimedia-Service Router (BMR), which is managing the program lineups, inserting local ads, transporting video between RCN facilities, controlling video quality and keeping tabs on bandwidth efficiency.

RCN has already introduced simulcast in Chicago and New York, and is working with BigBand on its remaining simulcast efforts.

In May, RCN said it expects its Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania properties (at least those with two-way cable plant) to roll out simulcast by year-end, but did not provide any timelines for its systems in the San Francisco and Los Angeles areas.